Print

Easy 15-Minute Tangy Sesame Asian Cucumber Salad

Close-up of thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in a savory dressing and topped with toasted sesame seeds for an asian cucumber salad.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this crisp, refreshing Asian cucumber salad quickly. It features thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in a tangy sesame soy dressing, perfect as a healthy, vegan side dish or light appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large English or Persian cucumbers
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for drawing out water)
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (optional, for a kick)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash the cucumbers well. Slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. For the viral ‘smashed’ texture, you can lightly smash the cucumbers with the flat side of a knife before slicing.
  2. Place the sliced cucumbers in a medium bowl. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Toss to coat and let them sit for 10 minutes. This draws out excess water, keeping the salad crisp.
  3. While the cucumbers rest, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and chili garlic sauce, if using. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  4. After 10 minutes, gently squeeze the cucumbers with your hands or press them with a paper towel to remove as much liquid as possible. Discard the liquid.
  5. Add the prepared dressing to the drained cucumbers. Toss gently until every slice is coated. If you are using minced garlic, add it now.
  6. Transfer the salad to a serving dish. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.
  7. Serve immediately for the best crunch, or chill for up to 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, substitute the soy sauce with tamari.
  • This salad is best eaten the day it is made to maintain maximum crispness.
  • If you want a spicier version, increase the chili garlic sauce or add a few drops of sesame chili oil.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://daisyrecipe.com/asian-cucumber-salad-easy-15-minute-recipe/